Environmental charity Thames21 is studying the feasibility of removing physical barriers like weirs in a bid to increase fish biodiversity and migration in the River Ching
Physical barriers such as weirs may be removed in the River Ching in order to boost fish migration and biodiversity.
Environmental charity Thames21 is working with partners to produce a series of feasibility studies and designs to explore weir, culverts, and concrete removal from the river, which originates as a small stream in Epping Forest and flows for around ten kilometres through, and into, the River Lea.
The River Ching is heavily modified with multiple weirs, structures, culverts, and stretches of concrete channel, which can block fish passage. The river has been artificially straightened, widened, and deepened in places. Although the River Ching is home to an array of wildlife such as perch, stone loach, European eel, and stickleback, fish biodiversity has declined in recent years due to physical barriers, pollution and poor water quality.
Thames 21 and its partners have identified suggestions for nine fish passage improvement projects and 14 habitat improvement projects along the River Ching.
Becca Turnpenney, Thames21’s Catchment Partnership Development Officer, said: “We know that tackling barriers to fish migration will improve the population of fish species in the River Ching. Currently fish passage is restricted due to physical barriers, but by mitigating these, it will permit movement of fish along the entire watercourse. Fish passage improvement projects also allow natural processes to return to the river, encouraging water to flow more naturally, promoting flow diversity, creating better habitats for a variety of aquatic life.
“This is why, over the next year, we will be exploring innovative ideas with our partners to help remove these barriers. These studies are about pushing the boundaries and seeing what’s possible, so that we can help to improve the health of the River Ching for the benefit of people and wildlife.”
Janet Laban, Joint Lead of the River Ching Action Group, said: “The Ching Action Group is keen to work in partnership with Thames 21 and others on this exciting project. We look forward to seeing biodiversity and water quality improvements as the project progresses.”
Councillor Clyde Loakes, deputy leader and cabinet member for climate and air quality at Waltham Forest Council, added: “The River Ching is a really special part of our borough’s natural environment, and we’re committed to working with partners like Thames21 to restore and protect it.
“Removing barriers to fish migration and improving habitats will help wildlife flourish and make the river healthier for future generations. This project reflects our wider ambition to tackle the climate emergency and enhance biodiversity, creating cleaner, greener spaces for local people to enjoy. It’s great to see practical action like this making a real difference on the ground.”
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